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Amsterdam is the true capital of the
Netherlands, and a magnificent city of art, culture and entertainment, with
a population of one million inhabitants. It is also the country’s second
port, after Rotterdam, with large warehouses, shipyard and passenger
terminal.
The original city center, which developed around the port, is literally
surrounded by water. It has the sea on one side and the docks, Amstel river
and canals on the other. Amsterdam was built on 90 islands and is connected
by 500 bridges. Its foundation dates back to 1275, when it was a shelter for
Christians and an important commercial center.
Under the Orange dynasty it became the symbol of Dutch wealth, enjoying a
period of artistic grandeur and commercial wealth. Several wars and
conflicts with England and France, plus German occupation during World War
II, jeopardized the status and development of the city. However, Amsterdam
was able to recover and prosper. One of its greatest projects was to reclaim
the Zuidersee.
The city is particularly compact, with most museums, monuments, shopping
streets, markets and other tourist attractions in close proximity. The city
is renowned for being a center of the diamond trade. The historical center
is charming, and in the so-called “hard” quarter the bars and restaurants
offer food, beer and live music, 365 days a year.
The three main waterways, the Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht,
comprise the core of the canal network, comparable to Venice in extent and
intricacy. The cultural center of the city includes the Rijksmuseum, which
exhibits work of the Dutch masters, the Vincent Van Gogh Museum, and the
modern art Stedelijk Museum. |
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